When replacing your office equipment, proper disposal is essential. While it may seem easy to throw an old copier in the dumpster and forget about it, the impact such negligence can carry can be hazardous. Copiers, especially older ones, contain toxic materials including heavy metals like lead and selenium. While there is no federal law in the United States regarding proper disposal, many states and communities have their own statutes regarding old copiers and other office equipment.

State Laws

Before deciding to simply toss your old copier in the trash, consult your state's statutes regarding electronic waste. Laws regarding proper disposal will vary from one state to the next, with potential punishments for improper disposal including fines or other consequences. Most state laws governing improper electronic waste disposal are based on Environmental Protection Agency guidelines, which define what materials in most electronics are potentially toxic to the environment.

Local Laws

Even if your state doesn't currently have any laws regarding improper disposal, your city or county might. Disposal laws may exist on a local level, which can still land you in hot water if you're caught illegally dumping electronic waste. If both your state and local statutes punish improper disposal, you could face a double-dose of fines or other potential consequences, which can devastate you if you have little money for legal help.

Appropriate Disposal and Recycling

Many cities have appropriate disposal and recycling centers for electronic waste. These drop-sites may be official government installations such as waste disposal sites with specialized dump or recycling sites for electronic waste or weigh-stations that pick up electronic waste for a small fee. Many private companies and retailers also offer electronic waste disposal and recycling, either free of charge or for a small fee. When disposing of your office copier and other devices, these are generally the best options to minimize environmental impact and ensure proper disposal.

Charitable Donation

If your copier or other office equipment is still in working order, you may consider donating them. Non-profit organizations, local schools and charities are often in need of equipment, and charitable donations of used but functional equipment are usually welcome. This donation not only boosts your public image within the community but may also qualify you for minor tax deductions as part of your company's charitable donations. In any case, the donation enables a still-functional piece of equipment to get some use before needing disposal or recycling.